Spread Your Wings: NRB Governor’s Visionary Policy Sets Stage For Nepalese IT to Go Global
30th December 2025, Kathmandu
The Nepalese tech ecosystem has just received its most significant vote of confidence to date. In a historic move, Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) has paved the way for IT companies to invest up to USD 20,000 abroad without the traditionally grueling approval process.
NRB Governor’s Visionary Policy
This policy is more than a regulatory update; it is a catalyst for a “Global Map” milestone. As the Governor recently noted, the goal is for Nepalese youth to: “Spread your wings, work hard, and conquer the global market from right here in Nepal.”
“आईटी उद्यमीलाई गभर्नरको भरोसा” – A Vision for Global Expansion
Governor Biswo Nath Poudel has been vocal about his support for the IT sector, emphasizing that the central bank is moving beyond just “facilitation” to active partnership. He highlighted a remarkable trend: thanks to reforms like easier company registration and revised Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) limits, the number of foreign-invested IT companies in Nepal jumped from 40 to nearly 400 in just one year.
“I want to assure everyone that these limits ($1 Million for exporters and $20,000 for new startups) will be reviewed and revised based on the results we see. We have even removed the need for NRB approval for repatriating profits to reduce paperwork. It is time to look at the global market.” Governor, NRB
The Entrepreneur’s Perspective: A Global Milestone
Industry leaders are already feeling the buzz. Chiranjibi Adhikari, a prominent Tech Entrepreneur, describes this as a transformative breakthrough:
“This move will create a massive buzz in the IT industry. A visionary Governor has broken through the barriers to allow us to open abroad and compete globally. This is the milestone that puts the IT industry of Nepal on the global map.”
Key Highlights of the New Directive:
For New Startups: Even companies that have not yet exported can now invest up to $20,000 to establish an international presence.
For Established Exporters: Companies with a proven track record can invest up to $1 Million abroad.
Simplified Profit Repatriation: Foreign investors no longer face the headache of seeking NRB approval just to take their profits home, encouraging more FDI into Nepal.
Breaking the 1964 Barrier: A Historic Shift
For decades, the “Act Restricting Investment Abroad, 1964” acted as a cage for local innovation. By dismantling this 60-year-old mindset of restriction, the NRB is allowing Nepalese firms to finally set up branch offices, hire global talent, and sign enterprise contracts in markets like the US, Europe, and Australia.
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Eligibility: Getting “Industry” Status
To benefit from this USD 20,000 limit, companies must go beyond simple incorporation. The directive specifically targets those registered as an “Information Technology Industry” (सूचना प्रविधि उद्योग) under:
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The Department of Industry (DoI)
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The Department of Cottage and Small Industries
If your company is only registered at the Office of the Company Registrar (OCR), you must complete your Industrial Registration to be eligible for this foreign exchange facility.
The Road Ahead: Procedural Clarity on Section 4 (क)
While the Governor’s intent is clear, the technical implementation of Section 4 (क) regarding specific documentation is still materializing.
What to expect: A detailed circular from NRB to commercial banks defining the exact “Paperwork” is expected within a few weeks.
Our Advice: Don’t wait. Ensure your tax clearances, industrial registrations, and business plans are ready so you can be the first to “spread your wings” once the banks begin accepting applications.
Conclusion: From Nepal to the World
The message from the central bank is clear: The banking sector will always support your expansion. With the government easing FDI limits and the central bank opening the doors for outward investment, the world is now a playground for Nepalese entrepreneurs.
For more: NRB Governor’s Visionary Policy
